Ad falsely linked to kids cartoon network asks parents to drop off children

31 May Ad falsely linked to kids cartoon network asks parents to drop off children

Police are investigating possible links between a deceptive online advertisement aimed at children in Adelaide and another recent one in Perth, in which the name ‘Nickelodeon’ was used in an attempt to lure them in. Child protection experts are warning parents to be vigilant, saying that fake events linked to popular culture are potentially a new way of targeting children.

In the latest instance, an event at Glenelg in beachside Adelaide was recently advertised on a local ‘buy and sell’ social media page and using the name of the popular cartoon network.

Ms McLean, who runs awareness organisation Cyber Safety Solutions, said it should be easy for police to track those responsible.
“Predatory child sex offenders will seek out opportunities to abuse children, and as we close more and more loopholes … then they will try and create new opportunities,” she said.

“The main social media companies work very closely with law enforcement right around the world, so it is a matter of local police in South Australia contacting the relevant social media site through the law enforcement portal,” she said.